Longest-Married Couple in US Shares The Secret of a Happy Marriage

John and Ann Betar's marriage didn't exactly start with blessings from their families. Ann's father had actually arranged for to be wed to another man, so the couple escaped to New York and eloped.

80 years later, the (still!) happily married couple has been named the longest married couple in the US by Worldwide marriage Encounter.

John Betar said the secret to a long happy marriage is actually quite simple.

"We just live with contentment and we don't live beyond our means. Just go with the flow."

John is 101 years old, while Ann is 97. They had five children, 14 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. The couple still live in their home in Fairfield, Connecticut.

Ann added that family is the key to their longevity.

"That's what makes life what it is," she said. "We were fortunate enough to live long enough to see this ... and it's really one of the most gratifying things in the world to see your great-grandchildren, to see your grandchildren become adults."

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[AP]